Travelling with a Toddler

Testing Time travelling with a toddler

This month we took Max (who is 2 next month) on his first holiday abroad - to America.  The flights were, on average, 8 hours and through our experience of this here are my top tips on travelling with a 2-year-old !

Be prepared that little ones do not like hanging around in queues and, therefore, it may be a bit of a testing time getting through security and baggage check-in.  Not a lot we can do about that really.  Silver lining - if your little one kicks right off at immigration in the USA - they'll fast track you to get you the hell out of there!

Get night flights
We had an evening flight coming home and Max was much more relaxed.  We wore him out during the day, made sure he was properly fed and went to the park an hour before we were due to check in to ensure he had had a good fun packed day.  Once the seat belt signs went off - he was out for the count until we landed in London.

Portable DVD Player
I know that sounds expensive but it doesn't have to be.  We bought a £30 portable DVD player from Tesco.  I used my Tesco Clubcard points.  This little item was a Godsend throughout the holiday.  We did have in-flight movies which did keep Max amused but his eyes lit up when he saw Toy Story on the DVD.  The battery life is only 3 hours so time this one well.

Stickers, Crayons and surprise toys
The sticker book went down well and Max played with it throughout the flight for approximately 15/20 minutes at a time.  His crayons weren't such a hit as they are at home - but finding out the table came down was a bit testing...

Take the Pushchair
This is a must.  Lots of people will have their pushchairs with them and if you are out for the day sightseeing and your little one falls asleep for their lunchtime kip - you're going have pretty heavy arms by the end of the day - only for them to do it again tomorrow.  So even if they hardly ever use it at home - it's better to have it and not need.

Don't Sweat it
If your little one plays up or kicks off - only those in rows behind and in front can really hear him.  Most will have headphones on and those further back won't hear your little one as the sound of aircraft is pretty loud too! - And at the end of the day - keep in mind you won't see these people again, and those with kids will understand.

Most importantly - once you land and out of the airport - ENJOY your holiday!


settling down with Woody to watch Toy Story



Review: Presents for Men Website

#GIFTED
I know I know I sneaked in the C word but it will be here before we know it and is it just me or is buying presents for men difficult?  I always struggle and end up with good old faithful - socks & jumpers!!


What do I take on the plane for a toddler?


We are due to go on holiday soon and Max will be going on his first holiday abroad, his first aeroplane and his first visit to America.

It's all very exciting but I'm a bit apprehensive about the flight and the long booking in time.  We have to be at the airport 3 hours before check in and then sit on a plane for 8 hours with a toddler just under 2.

I recently purchased a portable DVD player with my Tesco Clubcard points and it has 3-hour battery life.

I bought crayons, notepads and books

I bought magazines and sticker books

I have snacks and I have my iPod and daddy's iPad with headphones in the hopes of keeping Max amused.

I don't really know what else to pack for the plane so I'm hoping between the above, sleeps and in-flight movies this will help us through the next 12 hours..........

what to take on a plane with a toddler

Revamping my charity watch

Revamping an old watch

I'm at it again!  I see these great ideas in books and simply must try them!  Today's blog is how I changed my £3 charity watch to a lovely black and white polka dot strap to match my dress should I ever fit it that again!!